Our Top Picks
Best Overall: La Roche Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50 With its transparent and gentle formula, this sunscreen offers high-level protection against UVA and UVB radiation, making it suitable for all skin types.
Best Sunscreen for Oily Skin: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 70 is a lightweight sunscreen that absorbs excess oils, leaving a clean, non-shiny finish, making it ideal for oily skin types.
Best Sunscreen for Daily Use: Cetaphil Combination Skin Sun SPF 30 Sunscreen is a gel-based formula that absorbs quickly and is non-sticky, providing very high protection against UVB, UVA, and IR rays, suitable for daily wear.
Best Sunscreen for kids: Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 offers water and sweat-resistance for up to 80 minutes, making it ideal for active children, while its non-comedogenic formula ensures it won't clog pores or cause irritation.
Best Budget: Minimalist Women & Men SPF 50 Sunscreen Stick is formulated with effective UV filters and antioxidants, this sunscreen stick provides complete protection against UV rays at an affordable price.
The Indian climate during summers can not just be notoriously harsh, The Indian summer brings with it not just scorching temperatures but also a barrage of environmental stressors that can wreak havoc on your skin. From the relentless sun rays to pollution and humidity, these factors can leave your skin vulnerable and in need of protection. Dermatologists across the board have repeated the importance of sunscreen as an essential shield against these aggressors.
Sunscreen offers a plethora of benefits beyond mere sunburn prevention. It shields the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing premature aging signs like wrinkles and age spots. Moreover, it reduces the risk of skin cancer, making it a non-negotiable addition to your skincare routine.
Understanding the significance of selecting the best sunscreen tailored to your skin type in India is crucial. Whether you have sensitive skin, oily skin, or specific preferences like organic or mineral-based products, our list ensures you find the perfect sunscreen to keep your skin healthy and glowing throughout the summer.
Types of sunscreen
Chemical sunscreen: These sunscreens contain organic (carbon-based) compounds like avobenzone, octocrylene, and oxybenzone. They work by absorbing UV radiation and converting it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Chemical sunscreens tend to be lightweight and often have a transparent finish, making them suitable for daily wear under makeup.
Physical sunscreen: Also known as mineral sunscreen, these sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Instead of absorbing UV rays, physical sunscreens create a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reflecting and scattering UV radiation away from the skin. They are suitable for sensitive skin types and provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Factors to consider when choosing best sunscreen for face
SPF Level: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher for adequate protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Skin Type: Consider your skin type (dry, oily, sensitive, etc.) and choose a sunscreen that is formulated to suit your specific needs.
Ingredients: Look for sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for physical protection, or avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, or homosalate for chemical protection.
Water Resistance: If you'll be sweating or swimming, opt for a water-resistant sunscreen to ensure it stays effective longer.
Consistency: Choose a sunscreen with a consistency that you like and will use regularly, whether it's a lotion, cream, gel, or spray.
Non-comedogenic: If you have acne-prone skin, select a sunscreen labelled as non-comedogenic to avoid clogging pores.
Additional Features: Consider additional features like moisturising properties, anti-aging ingredients, or tinted formulas for added benefits.
Allergies and Sensitivities: Check the label for potential allergens if you have sensitive skin or known allergies.
How we narrowed down these options for you
Dermatologist Recommendations: Sunscreens endorsed by dermatologists were given top priority, ensuring that each product has undergone professional scrutiny for safety and efficacy.
Performance Evaluation: Each sunscreen's performance was evaluated, based on factors such as sun protection efficacy, texture, ease of application, and compatibility with different skin types. Only products that excelled in these criteria made it to our final list, ensuring you receive top-notch protection and skincare benefits.
Customer Reviews and Ratings: We extensively analyzed customer feedback and ratings to understand real-world experiences with each sunscreen. Products with consistently positive reviews and high ratings were prioritized for inclusion in our selection.
Brand Reliability and Credibility: We considered the reputation and track record of each brand in the skincare industry. Only products from reputable and trusted brands made it to our list, ensuring reliability and credibility.
Price: Lastly while quality is paramount, we also considered affordability. Our selection includes options that offer excellent value for money, catering to various budget preferences without compromising on performance.
Below is a list of best sunscreens for all types in India
EltaMD UV Sport Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 is a water-resistant sunscreen perfect for active lifestyles, including children and outdoor athletes. It provides UVA/UVB protection and won't drip into eyes or rinse off due to perspiration. Formulated with zinc oxide, it reflects and scatters UV rays, while tocopheryl acetate (Vitamin E) reduces signs of aging. This paraben-free, fragrance-free, non comedogenic, and oil-free sunscreen is suitable for all skin types and can be used alongside other skincare products. Remember to reapply every two hours and after swimming, sweating, or towel drying to maintain its effectiveness.
Specifications:
Price: 4,696 (
MRP 8,89947% Off)Brand: EltaMD
SPF: 50
Size: 3.0 oz
Active Ingredients: Zinc oxide, Octinoxate, Octisalate
Water-resistance: 80 minutes
Free from: Paraben, Fragrance
Pros |
Cons |
Strong UV protection |
Expensive |
Smooth application without white cast |
|
Water-resistant for long periods |
|
Contains Vitamin E for anti-aging |
Expert Insight: This sunscreen's ability to deliver high-quality protection while remaining gentle on the skin sets it apart as a standout product in the sunscreen market. It ensures long-lasting coverage, even during strenuous activities or in humid conditions.
User’s feedback: As someone with sensitive skin, I've always been cautious about the products I use. I've been using this sunscreen for years and it has never disappointed me. It's been my reliable companion during beach trips and baseball games, providing consistent protection against harmful sun rays. The lotion goes on smoothly, leaving no white marks or greasy residue. It's so lightweight that I often forget I have it on.
Why it's worth buying: With a stellar 4.7-star rating from over 9,000+ overall ratings on Amazon, it is a highly effective and trusted sunscreen that exceeds expectations.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ offers high UVA and UVB protection with a non-greasy, gentle formula suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Its sweat and sand-resistant formula leaves an invisible, lightweight finish, making it ideal for daily use under makeup. This fragrance-free sunscreen is enhanced with an exclusive filter MEXORYL400 to protect against damage from UVA, UVB, and ultra-long UVA rays. Its transparent application ensures no white cast, providing effective sun protection without compromising your skin's comfort or appearance.
Specifications:
Price: 2,599 (
MRP 2,99913% Off)Brand: La Roche-Posay
Type: Fluid sunscreen
SPF: 50+
Volume: 50ml
Texture: Non-greasy
Skin Type: All
Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide
Pros |
Cons |
Water and sweat-resistant |
Fluid texture can get the product messy |
High protection efficacy |
Expensive |
Gentle and non greasy texture |
|
Lightweight and long lasting |
|
Transparent application |
Expert Insight: Its chemical formulation ensures effective protection without clogging pores, making it an ideal choice for those with acne-prone and oily skin seeking both sun protection and a matte appearance.
User’s feedback: Great sunscreen! It doesn't make balls on the face, it blends very well and it's not mushy, it's liquid enough. I have mixed, acne-prone skin and it's perfect for my skin!
Why it's worth buying: It's worth buying because it's the best sunscreen for oily skin, offering highly effective sun protection. Additionally, its 4.5-star rating on Amazon reflects its huge popularity.
CeraVe Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30 provides broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with mineral filters zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, ideal for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its sheer tint seamlessly blends into all skin tones, offsetting the whitening effect common with mineral sunscreens, while leaving a natural, healthy glow. This lightweight, non-greasy formula is enriched with essential ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and maintain skin's moisture barrier. It is Fragrance-free and paraben-free which makes it highly suitable for daily use.
Specifications:
Price: 1,490 (
MRP 2,79947% Off)Brand: CeraVe
SPF Level: SPF 30
Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide
Skin Types: All
Texture: Sheer Tint
Size: 1.7 fl oz
Pros |
Cons |
Hydrating and lightweight |
A little on the oily side |
Won't clog pores |
May leave a white cast |
Helps reflect the sun's damaging rays |
|
Sheer tint gives off natural look |
|
Ensures effective sun protection |
Expert Insight: This combination of sun care and skincare makes it a versatile and valuable addition to any skincare routine, especially for those seeking multifunctional products that simplify their regimen without compromising on efficacy or results.
User’s feedback: I've got medium skin tone and really dry skin, but this sunscreen works wonders for me. It keeps my skin hydrated all day long, and with SPF 30, I feel confident knowing my skin is protected from the sun. This will be a staple in my morning skin care routine.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its high customer satisfaction, with 68% of over 53,000+ Amazon ratings awarding it 5 stars, indicating its effectiveness among users.
Cetaphil Combination Skin Sun SPF 30 Sunscreen is the No.1 dermatologist-recommended brand in India. It offers very high protection against UVB, UVA, and infrared rays, making it suitable for sensitive and sun-sensitive skin. Its gel-based formula absorbs quickly, providing nourishment with vitamin E without clogging pores. It's water-resistant and doesn't leave a greasy residue, making it ideal for daily use on both face and body.
Specifications:
Price: 1,200
Brand: Cetaphil
SPF: 30+
Skin Type: Combination
Weight: 100g
Texture: Gel-based
Active Ingredients: Broad Spectrum Filters, Vitamin E
Water Resistance: Yes
Fragrance: Unscented
Expert Insight: Nourishing ingredients like vitamin E hydrate and protect the skin, making it suitable for sensitive skin types. Trusted by dermatologists, it reflects a commitment to skin health and safety.
User’s feedback: One of my favourite products and easy to use. No greasy/sticky. Gives you a natural glow on your face. Just a drop for the entire face is enough. I loved it
Why it's worth buying: With a 4.3-star rating and 1K recent purchases on Amazon last month, it's a trusted choice for many.
Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen SPF 50 ensures water- and sweat-resistant protection for up to 80 minutes without leaving a white cast. Its non-comedogenic formula suits all skin types, providing lightweight hydration. With Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, and Octocrylene as active ingredients, it shields against UVA/UVB and infrared radiation, ensuring comprehensive sun protection without clogging pores. Perfect for daily use and loved by all ages.
Specifications:
Price: 3,254 (
MRP 4,00019% Off)Brand: Supergoop
SPF Level: SPF 50
Water Resistance: 80 minutes
Texture: Lightweight lotion
Skin Types: All types
Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene
Size: 2.4 fl oz (71 ml)
Pros |
Cons |
Lightweight hydrating formula |
May feel greasy for some |
No white cast |
Pricey |
Non-comedogenic |
|
Provides broad-spectrum protection |
Expert Insight: It is a staple in sun protection, cherished for its effective shielding against harmful UV rays without the typical drawbacks associated with sunscreen. By offering reliable protection against sun damage, it empowers individuals to embrace outdoor activities confidently while maintaining skin health.
User’s feedback: I loved the product. It seamlessly gets absorbed, doesn’t leave any residue on the face. This product was recommended to me by both my daughter as well as a skin expert. They were right.
Why it's worth buying: With a 4.6-star rating and an Amazon Choice label, this everyday sunscreen is a trusted investment, offering effective sun protection and lightweight comfort for all-day wear.
Ideal for all skin types, Brinton UV Doux Face & Body Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA+++ offers comprehensive protection against harmful UV rays. Enriched with zinc oxide, it ensures long-lasting hydration and radiant skin without greasiness. Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic, this non-greasy gel absorbs quickly, leaving a matte finish with no white cast. Perfect for sensitive, acne-prone, and combination skin, it's paraben-free and water-resistant for up to 8 hours.
Specifications:
Price: 1,153 (
MRP 1,29511% Off)Brand: Brinton
SPF: 50 PA+++
Skin Type: All
Net Quantity: 100g
Water Resistance: Yes
Finish: Matte
Key Features: Non-greasy, Hypoallergenic
Pros |
Cons |
Lightweight and quick-absorbing |
Thick consistency |
Hydrates skin without greasiness |
Strong fragrance |
Matte finish without white cast |
|
Effective sun protection |
|
Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic |
Expert Insight: With a matte finish and no white cast, it caters to various skin types, making it a must in any skincare routine for comprehensive sun defence.
User’s feedback: I wore the sunscreen while stepping out, and usually, all the sunscreens I have used are a little dewy and shiny. But to my utter surprise, this one is super matte and gets absorbed in nanoseconds. My makeup glided like butter on this. Super impressive.
Why it's worth buying: It's worth buying for its proven effectiveness and popularity, with 1k+ recent purchases on Amazon and over 7,000+ overall ratings, indicating high customer satisfaction and trust in its performance.
Paula's Choice Skin Balancing Ultra-Sheer Daily Defense SPF 30 is a lightweight moisturiser ideal for normal to oily and combination skin. With broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, it helps prevent premature aging, maintains an even complexion, and controls excess shine. The oil-free formula leaves a soft matte finish, making it suitable for daily use as the last step in your morning skincare routine. It's enriched with antioxidants to diminish wrinkles and uneven skin tone, providing weightless hydration without clogging pores.
Specifications:
Price: 3,150
Brand: Paula's Choice
Skin Type: Normal, Oily
SPF Level: SPF 30
Texture: Lightweight, Matte Finish
Size: 60 ml Tube
Use: Face
Special Ingredient: Green Tea
Material Type: Oil Free
Pros |
Cons |
Controls excess shine |
Smell cannot be pleasant to come |
Leaves a soft matte finish |
May cause irritation in some |
Helps maintain even complexion |
|
Lightweight non-greasy formula |
|
Anti-aging benefits |
Expert Insight: It delivers on its promise to maintain an even complexion while controlling excess shine, leaving the skin with a soft matte finish. Its oil-free formula caters to the needs of normal to oily skin types, providing effective sun protection without clogging pores.
User’s feedback: This product is exactly what I was looking for and I really love it. It’s lightweight but still provides the spf without being greasy. I initially rated 4 stars because I felt like the tube was really small and it wasn’t going to last and I couldn’t justify the price if I’d be buying more every month. But after using the product a while longer I realised a little really does go a long way. So I’ve updated my review.
Why it's worth buying: It's worth buying for its lightweight broad-spectrum SPF 30 protection, backed by a high 63% 5-star rating on Amazon, indicating its effectiveness and user satisfaction.
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50 is a daily face sunscreen suitable for all skin types, including dry, oily, and sensitive skin, even atopic skin. This water-based, oil-free sunscreen provides high UV protection, preventing sunburn, tanning, and skin aging. With its ultra-light formula, it serves as an excellent makeup base, non-greasy, and without leaving a white cast. Trusted by dermatologists worldwide, it maintains skin health while offering dermatological luxury without irritation to the eyes.
Specifications
Price: 2,190
Brand: ISDIN
SPF Level: SPF 50
Skin Types: All
Texture: Water-based
Finish: Non-greasy
Size: 50 ml
Makeup Base: Yes
Fragrance: None
Pros |
Cons |
High UV protection |
Not waterproof for swimming |
Non-greasy and lightweight |
|
Prevents sunburn and tanning |
|
No eye irritation |
|
No white cast |
Expert Insight: Its water-based, oil-free formula is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin, and provides an excellent makeup base.
User’s feedback: Holy grail sunscreen! I am a boy with oily skin and this perfect sunscreen. I wish it would have come in waterproof because I sweat a lot and it can decrease protection level. I apply a good amount and it can last 2 months with daily use of am as well as pm 2 times so kind of costly but effective.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its lightweight, non-greasy formula that effectively prevents sunburn and premature skin aging.
Neutrogena Sunblock SPF 70 provides superior sun protection with its breakthrough Helioplex technology, effectively guarding against both skin-aging UVA and burning UVB rays. Ideal for dry skin, this lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly for an invisible finish. Its Dry-Touch technology ensures a clean, non-shiny appearance, while being waterproof and sweatproof. Non-comedogenic and oil-free, it won't clog pores, offering reliable sun protection without leaving a white cast.
Specifications:
Price: 1,489 (
MRP 2,00026% Off)Brand: Neutrogena
SPF: 70
Weight: 88.0 ml
Skin Type: Dry
Active Ingredients: Acrylates, Jojoba
Water resistance: Waterproof
Finish: Dry-Touch
Non-comedogenic: Yes
Pros |
Cons |
Superior sun protection |
Fluid texture may mess up |
Quick absorption |
|
Non-clogging pores |
|
Non greasy formula with no white cast |
|
Lightweight and gentle |
Expert Insight: The waterproof and sweatproof properties provide long-lasting protection, while its compatibility with dry skin adds further value. It delivers dependable sun protection without compromising comfort or effectiveness.
User’s feedback: I have East Asian skin and the sunscreen works perfectly for me. It doesn't feel greasy at all and it leaves no white cast. I have no irritation problems with it and it smells neutral, sort of like baby powder.
Why it's worth buying: Worth buying for its proven effectiveness, boasting a 4.5-star rating from over 20,000+ Amazon overall ratings, ensuring reliable sun protection with widespread satisfaction.
The Minimalist SPF 50 Sunscreen Stick is a convenient and effective solution for all skin types, offering broad-spectrum protection with a PA++++ rating against UV rays. Infused with Adenosine and Rice Bran Oil, it addresses signs of aging and brightens the skin, while Vitamin E acts as a potent antioxidant, preventing further sun damage. This lightweight stick leaves no white cast or oily feel, making it ideal for daily use and easy reapplication. It is fragrance-free, paraben-free, sulfate-free, dye-free, and non-comedogenic, making it suitable for even sensitive and dry skin.
Specifications:
Price: 759 (
MRP 7995% Off)Brand: Minimalist
SPF: 50
Skin Type: All
Weight: 20g
Active Ingredients: Vitamin E, Adenosine, Rice Bran Oil
PA Rating: PA++++
Pros |
Cons |
Contains potent antioxidants |
May melt in high heat |
Lightweight non-greasy |
May feel a bit sticky |
Easy to carry |
|
Quick reapplication |
|
Broad spectrum protection |
Expert Insight: Its convenience and effectiveness make it a trusted choice among consumers seeking reliable sun care solutions.
User’s feedback: Very convenient to use if you are an on the go girl, who does not have the time to follow the three finger rule with sunscreen cream. It cannot be applied on make-up though as it takes your makeup with it in the swipe. Leaves a cooling sensation on the skin so apply it before makeup and re-apply every 40 mins.
Why it's worth buying: With broad-spectrum protection and ease of use, this SPF 50 sunscreen stick is a popular choice, evidenced by over 600+ recent purchases on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs )
How often should sunscreen be applied?
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying, to ensure continuous protection throughout the day.
Does sunscreen expire?
Yes, sunscreen has an expiration date typically indicated on the packaging. Expired sunscreen may lose its effectiveness, so it's essential to replace it regularly for optimal protection.
Is it necessary to use sunscreen on cloudy days?
Yes, UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so it's essential to wear sunscreen even on cloudy days to protect the skin from potential damage.
How should I apply sunscreen effectively?
Apply sunscreen generously on all exposed skin areas at least 15 minutes before sun exposure, ensuring thorough coverage, and reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating for optimal protection.
What type of sunscreen works best for oily skin?
Opt for oil-free or non-comedogenic sunscreens specially formulated for oily skin types to prevent clogged pores and excess shine while providing effective sun protection without causing breakouts or greasiness.
The Bottom Line
Regardless of skin type, incorporating sunscreen into daily skincare habits is crucial for maintaining healthy and radiant skin. Our recommended list of sunscreens provides a variety of options suitable for all skin types, ensuring broad-spectrum protection without leaving behind a greasy or heavy residue. Investing in quality sunscreen from our curated selection not only safeguards your skin but also promotes long-term skin health and vitality, making it a worthwhile addition to your daily skincare regimen.
Disclaimer: The above content is non-editorial and produced by a third party partner. Outlook India does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of the content*.
*The product prices mentioned in the article are subject to change
